Published Saturday, 17 May, 2008 at 06:00 AM
Minister for Main Roads and Local Government
The Honourable Warren Pitt
Bridge name honours Indigenous creation legend
The Sunshine Coast’s history, geography and culture have been recognised in the name chosen for the area’s iconic Maroochy River crossing.
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said a new name had been chosen for two bridges that comprise the Sunshine Motorway crossing – the 18-year-old bridge currently undergoing refurbishment and the new $25 million bridge that opened to traffic last December.
He said the new name was the outcome of a selection process involving more than 300 public suggestions, which were considered by a committee comprising local tourism, arts, architectural and historical representatives.
"I'm pleased to announce that both bridges will be known by a single name – the Maroochy Bridge," Mr Pitt said.
"This name reflects a strong community identification with the Maroochy River and the city of Maroochydore and also continues a historical link with the former Maroochy Shire Council.
"Furthermore, the name Maroochy has a strong resonance with local Aboriginal creation stories.
"It was the beautiful young Aboriginal girl Maroochy whose tears created the river after two young warriors, Coolum and Ninderry, both fell in love with her."
Mr Pitt said the new name echoed community sentiment displayed throughout the selection process.
"Of the suggestions put forward by the Sunshine Coast community, by far the most popular name was Maroochy in some way, shape or form," Mr Pitt said
"A consultative approach was necessary to ensure that the community had the final say – and that's exactly what has happened.
"There was overwhelming support for the name Maroochy and the panel felt that no other nomination matched its value.
“I can understand that some people might have been expecting something a bit different, something a bit more adventurous, so to speak, but often times the best answer – and in this case, the most suitable name – is the plain and simple one. “
Mr Pitt said the $104 million upgrade of the Sunshine Motorway between Maroochydore Road and David Low Way, including bridgework, was on track for completion in December.
"The new bridge has been operating efficiently with two southbound and one northbound lane since it opened late last year," Mr Pitt said.
"And when refurbishment of the existing bridge is completed by the end of this year, there will be six lanes of traffic across the Maroochy River – three southbound on the new bridge and three northbound on the existing bridge."
Permanent bridge name signage will be erected to coincide with both bridges being open to traffic.
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said a new name had been chosen for two bridges that comprise the Sunshine Motorway crossing – the 18-year-old bridge currently undergoing refurbishment and the new $25 million bridge that opened to traffic last December.
He said the new name was the outcome of a selection process involving more than 300 public suggestions, which were considered by a committee comprising local tourism, arts, architectural and historical representatives.
"I'm pleased to announce that both bridges will be known by a single name – the Maroochy Bridge," Mr Pitt said.
"This name reflects a strong community identification with the Maroochy River and the city of Maroochydore and also continues a historical link with the former Maroochy Shire Council.
"Furthermore, the name Maroochy has a strong resonance with local Aboriginal creation stories.
"It was the beautiful young Aboriginal girl Maroochy whose tears created the river after two young warriors, Coolum and Ninderry, both fell in love with her."
Mr Pitt said the new name echoed community sentiment displayed throughout the selection process.
"Of the suggestions put forward by the Sunshine Coast community, by far the most popular name was Maroochy in some way, shape or form," Mr Pitt said
"A consultative approach was necessary to ensure that the community had the final say – and that's exactly what has happened.
"There was overwhelming support for the name Maroochy and the panel felt that no other nomination matched its value.
“I can understand that some people might have been expecting something a bit different, something a bit more adventurous, so to speak, but often times the best answer – and in this case, the most suitable name – is the plain and simple one. “
Mr Pitt said the $104 million upgrade of the Sunshine Motorway between Maroochydore Road and David Low Way, including bridgework, was on track for completion in December.
"The new bridge has been operating efficiently with two southbound and one northbound lane since it opened late last year," Mr Pitt said.
"And when refurbishment of the existing bridge is completed by the end of this year, there will be six lanes of traffic across the Maroochy River – three southbound on the new bridge and three northbound on the existing bridge."
Permanent bridge name signage will be erected to coincide with both bridges being open to traffic.
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819